New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp from 'Mastering the Art of Southern Cooking'

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When it comes to finger-licking Cajun delights, New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp takes the crown.

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New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp from 'Mastering the Art of Southern Cooking'
Servings
2

Method

  1. Sprinkle the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of seasoning. This can be done up to an hour in advance.

  2. Preheat a large skillet over high heat. Add the oil and heat it briefly.

  3. Add the garlic and rosemary to the pan. Stir them to lightly brown the garlic, being careful not to burn it.

  4. Add the shrimp, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and lemon juice and quarters. Lightly stir the shrimp and the ingredients together, just enough to mix them.

  5. Pour in the beer, stirring to release any bits clinging to the bottom of the skillet. Boil the mixture to reduce while shaking the pan.

  6. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 2 1/2 minutes, depending on their size. Add the remaining seafood seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. The liquid should have a sauce consistency when the shrimp are finished cooking.

  7. Quickly whisk in the butter. Turn down the heat if necessary. Continue whisking until the butter is melted into the sauce, making it thick and emulsified.

  8. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if desired. Remove the lemon quarters.

  9. Serve the dish with crusty bread, plenty of napkins, and fingerbowls. Garnish each serving with a piece of lemon.

About this recipe

New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp: A Finger-Licking Cajun Delight

When it comes to finger-licking Cajun delights, New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp takes the crown. This iconic dish from the heart of the South is a tantalizing blend of flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of the Big Easy.

The Essence of New Orleans Cuisine

New Orleans is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, a melting pot of flavors influenced by French, Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. Just like the city itself, New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp is a vibrant and spicy dish that reflects this diverse culinary tapestry.

Imagine succulent shrimp simmering in a heavenly concoction of butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a medley of aromatic spices. As the flavors meld together, the dish develops a smoky and tangy profile that is simply irresistible.

How to Make New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp

Creating this mouthwatering dish is simpler than you might think. Start by sautéing the shrimp in a sizzling pan. As they cook, they absorb the flavors of the butter and garlic, resulting in a succulent and tender texture.

Next, it's time to add the star of the show: the barbecue sauce. This sauce is a harmonious blend of tangy Worcestershire sauce, zesty lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and a kick of cayenne pepper. The sauce coats the shrimp, infusing them with its smoky and tangy goodness.

Allow the shrimp to simmer in this delectable sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the shrimp to soak up all the deliciousness. The result is a dish that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Pairing Suggestions

New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp is best enjoyed with a side of crusty French bread, perfect for sopping up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. For a complete New Orleans experience, serve it alongside a bowl of creamy grits or a refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.

. Is this dish very spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.

. Can I use a different type of seafood?

While the traditional recipe calls for shrimp, you can certainly experiment with other seafood like crab or crawfish to add your own twist to this classic dish.

. Can I make the barbecue sauce in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing the barbecue sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even further, making the dish even more flavorful.

. How long should I simmer the shrimp in the sauce?

Simmering the shrimp for about 5 minutes should be enough to ensure they are fully cooked and infused with the flavors of the sauce.

. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving to save time.

. Is this dish gluten-free?

The traditional Worcestershire sauce used in this recipe contains gluten. However, you can easily find gluten-free alternatives in most grocery stores to make this dish gluten-free.

. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled to feed a larger group. Just make sure you have a big enough pan to accommodate all the deliciousness.

In conclusion, New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp is a dish that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine. With its bold flavors, it's a true celebration of the vibrant and diverse culinary heritage of the city. So why not bring a taste of the Big Easy to your own kitchen and indulge in this finger-licking Cajun delight?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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